looking, thinking & applying

This week we’re going to look at, analyse and investigate various illustrative images… Then, pulling on the knowledge you’ve gathered over previous weeks, experiment with different methods of application.

Select several illustrations to investigate and ask yourself the following questions-

a. Why does the composition work?

b. How does it manage to focus the viewer’s attention?

c. How does the illustrator effectively communicate line, form, texture and pattern.

d. How do they effectively use colour?

e. How does the image balance detail and simplicity?

f. What mediums have they utilised to achieve specific effects?

Once you’ve answered these questions, look to your own work. Explore and experiment with various techniques and approaches in order to achieve similar outcomes. Ask yourself the same questions of your own work and be honest when answering them.

Here are a selection of illustrations to start the ball rolling. Please don’t restrict yourself to these images only.